Welcome! This blog documented my my thoughts and insights as I progressed through the 4 year naturopathic medicine program in Canada and now provides some highlights of an ND's private practice. It includes links for those interested in becoming a Naturopathic Doctor as well as resources for students and patients interested in the field. My clinic is located in Airdrie Alberta.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Everyone loves a pale rosy glow on the
cheeks but persistent redness and frequent breakouts are something we try to
eliminate or hide. But what do these symptoms tell us about our health? Are
they genetic or are there environmental triggers? Most commonly, acne and
rosacea are treated by face washes that contain antibacterial ingredients or,
if more severe, with antibiotic medications. Although these treatments are
effective for many people, others see no difference or have side effects such
as dry skin and skin irritation. So why are skin conditions so stubborn and
what other therapies can help?

Naturopathic medicine seeks to investigate
and understand the underlying causes of any condition and skin conditions are
no different. Acne and rosacea are rarely seen in children and often begin in
the teenage years with puberty as hormones begin to change. This indicates that
hormones and hormone dysregulation are factors in skin health. However, many
people do not begin to experience acne or rosacea until later in adulthood.
Breakouts can occur not only on the face but also the neck, back, chest, arms,
or legs.

It is commonly said amongst Naturopathic
Doctors that the skin reflects the health of the gastrointestinal tract or gut.
Food allergies and sensitivities can cause a significant amount of inflammation
in the body that often appears as skin redness and pimples. Since the skin and
the gut are also two important routes of elimination in the body, symptoms in
these two organ systems are often correlated to each other. Common symptoms
that accompany acne and rosacea are gas, bloating, constipation, moodiness, and
fatigue after eating. Other signs of inflammation in the body can even include
joint and muscle aches. These symptoms, when combined with acne or rosacea,
indicate that what is going on is more than skin deep.

Treatment of acne and rosacea from a
natural perspective often involves testing for food sensitivities and allergies
using diagnostic laboratory testing and then treating the gastrointestinal
tract using diet change and botanical plant-based formulas or supplements. In
this way, acne and rosacea can be treated from the inside out to prevent the
recurrence so common with treatment that is only skin deep. For more
information on natural treatments for acne and rosacea that address these
underlying symptoms consult your local Naturopathic Doctor.